Fire season came early to Central Oregon this year, and restrictions are now in effect across Jefferson County and surrounding public lands. Here is what residents need to know heading into June.
Jefferson County Burn Ban
Jefferson County Fire and EMS imposed a county-wide burning restriction effective May 4, 2026. All open burning — including debris piles, agricultural burns, and yard waste — is prohibited until conditions improve. Violators can face citations and may be held liable for suppression costs if a fire escapes.
ODF Regulated Use Closure
The Oregon Department of Forestry placed the Prineville Unit, Fossil Sub-Unit, and Sisters Sub-Unit under a Regulated Use Closure effective May 18. This closure restricts:
- Campfires of any kind, including charcoal, propane, and wood pellet stoves
- Chainsaw and power saw use during high-risk hours
- Off-road driving in dry vegetation
- Fireworks of any type
Stage 1 Public Use Restrictions on Federal Lands
Central Oregon public lands — including the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland units — entered Stage 1 fire restrictions on May 18. Under Stage 1:
- Campfires are prohibited except in designated campgrounds with metal fire rings
- Woodcutting is prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.
- Fireworks are prohibited at all times
BLM Restrictions
The Bureau of Land Management implemented its own restrictions effective May 13 across BLM-administered lands in Central Oregon, including the Crooked River Canyon, Deschutes River, and John Day River corridors popular with local recreationists. Campfires are banned along these river corridors. Fireworks, exploding targets, and steel-core ammunition are also prohibited on all BLM lands.
The 2026 Fire Season Picture
Oregon's official fire season was declared effective May 8, 2026 — earlier than typical. Warm, dry conditions throughout April and May have cured grasses and light fuels to dangerous levels across the region. Fire weather forecasters have flagged elevated risk for Jefferson County and the surrounding high desert plateau through at least mid-June.
What Residents Can Do
- Check current restrictions at centraloregonfire.org before any outdoor activity
- Report smoke or fire immediately by calling 911
- Clear brush and defensible space around structures now, before fire weather peaks
- Avoid parking vehicles in dry grass — catalytic converters can ignite fires
- Never leave campfires or debris burns unattended
Jefferson County spans a large area of high-desert terrain with limited access roads and significant agricultural and timber values. Residents in rural areas — including Ashwood, Culver, Metolius, and the Crooked River Ranch area — should review their evacuation plans and ensure they are registered for Jefferson County emergency alerts.